Max Plus

[kastles]

I'm building up some loads for a couple different gr bullets for my .223 using the ladder method to start. Max charge with IMR 4198 is 20gr. How far up do you load to? Do you only go to the max recommended load or higher and watch the brass for pressure signs? I have been loading for a couple years now and have found great groups without going near max with my 30-06 but I feel the need for speed with my 223(if I can get a good group.)

kastles

 

[KDX]

I've used Hodgdon's published Max (on their website) as a guide and never found it (with Benchmark) to be hot or show any pressure signs with several different rifles chambered in .223, but always had my best accuracy about 1gr below the Max. I never really went over to try for accuracy or pressure signs either.